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When I first read Eat Pray Love, I was sitting on the steps of Columbia University for a summer internship at Donna Karan here in New York City. I was a junior in college at the time and far from discovering who I am or what I want out of life. Admittedly, I was a serial monogamist — always leaping into relationships — never allowing myself enough time to get to know myself.
The day I started reading Eat Pray Love, I was newly single for the first time in years. In a new city, with a new internship, no friends and no relationship; I took time to get to know myself. That summer in New York became the Summer of Nikki. Inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir, I dared to ask myself questions like what do I want to do today? In Eat Pray Love, I found a reassuring voice who told me it was okay to be selfish sometimes; that our lives are what we decide them to be, not what society dictates.
The lessons I learned from Eat Pray Love would come in handy years later when I found myself on the brink of calling off my wedding in the name of chasing a dream. Would be put to use when I found myself solo traveling in Argentina, running away from my problems back home. Would be a comfort when I sat amongst ripped up invitations and useless favors after having cancelled my wedding. Eat Pray Love was — and always will be — more than a book for me, it is a friend.
Today, my life is dramatically different from what it was on all levels. Where I was living in the Upper East Side in an apartment I couldn’t afford; today I live in an artsy neighborhood I adore. Where I was once working at an advertising firm for a soul crushing job; today I’m a travel writer. Where I was once in a relationship that wasn’t the right fit, today I am with a man who is my match in every way. As Elizabeth Gilbert puts it. Eat Pray Love is ultimately a reminder that we can change our lives at any moment.
Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It
I’m happy to announce that this month’s book club selection is: Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It is a collection of personal stories from people whose lives were changed as a result of Elizabeth Gibert’s memoir. I imagine this read will be inspiring, enlightening and in the very least inspire endless wanderlust. I hope that Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It will recapture some of the magic I felt when reading Eat Pray Love back in college.
Enjoy this month’s book club selection and see you back here on September 1st to discuss the book! Really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this one!
